The Üsküdar University Myopia Application and Research Center (MİYOMER) was established to support the early detection of myopia and other refractive errors, promote eye health, and conduct scientific research on visual development.
The Center adopts a comprehensive approach to visual development, particularly during childhood, taking into account biological, environmental, digital, and socioeconomic factors. By bringing together early detection, screening, monitoring, referral, and preventive approaches, it aims to develop sustainable models for eye health.
MİYOMER's activities are based on collaboration among ophthalmologists, academics, opticians, healthcare professionals, and other relevant stakeholders. Through initiatives developed in cooperation with universities, schools, municipalities, and public institutions, the Center aims to ensure that scientific knowledge is put to use for the benefit of society.
MİYOMER's Core Approach
- To support the early recognition of myopia and other refractive errors.
- To assess visual development in relation to individual characteristics and environmental conditions.
- To facilitate appropriate monitoring and referral to specialists based on screening findings.
- To inform families and educators about habits that support eye health.
- To contribute to eye health research and preventive initiatives through research data.
What Is Covered in the Initial Assessment?
Assessments conducted within the scope of the Center's screening and research programs take into account individuals' vision-related complaints, previous eye examinations, history of eyeglass use, and family history of myopia. In children, age, developmental stage, school life, and daily visual habits are considered together.
The assessments to be conducted are determined according to the scope of the program and the individual's needs. Screening procedures do not replace comprehensive eye examinations. Individuals for whom further evaluation is considered necessary are referred to an ophthalmologist for diagnosis and treatment.
Assessment of Visual Development
Monitoring children's visual development is one of the Center's priority areas of activity, particularly in terms of identifying potential vision problems at an early stage. The impact of vision-related difficulties on daily life, school activities, and learning processes is also taken into consideration.
Based on the findings, the Center aims to provide information to families, recommend further specialist evaluation when necessary, and support the monitoring process.
Investigation of Environmental and Digital Factors
Factors such as near-work habits, digital device use, working environments, and time spent outdoors are addressed in the Center's research and public awareness activities.
Through these initiatives, the Center aims to gain a better understanding of children's daily living conditions and to promote eye-health-supporting habits in collaboration with families and educators.
Information and Awareness Activities for Families and Educators
MİYOMER aims to organize educational, advisory, and awareness-raising activities on eye health for parents, teachers, and educators. These activities focus on recognizing vision problems, understanding the importance of regular eye examinations, and supporting children's visual needs.
By encouraging the active participation of families and educators, the Center seeks to facilitate follow-up of the recommended assessments and monitoring steps after screening.
Screening, Referral, and Monitoring Process
Findings obtained through eye health screenings are evaluated, and individuals requiring further examination are referred to the relevant healthcare services. Monitoring activities are planned according to the scope of each program and conducted in a manner that allows comparison with previous findings.
For individuals diagnosed with myopia or other refractive errors, the need for treatment and the appropriate treatment methods are determined by an ophthalmologist. The Center's activities are designed to support early detection and access to appropriate healthcare services.
Scientific Research and Data Studies
The Center aims to conduct scientific research into the prevalence, causes, and effects of myopia and other refractive errors. Its areas of activity also include developing digital infrastructure for the systematic collection, analysis, and reporting of eye health data.
The Center seeks to translate research findings into scientific publications, needs assessments, and programs that support public health. Through national and international collaborations, it aims to contribute to the body of knowledge in eye health and to the development of related policies.
Professional Training and Collaboration
MİYOMER's activities include organizing theoretical and practical training programs for healthcare professionals, opticians, and other relevant professional groups. Through scientific meetings, seminars, and workshops, the Center aims to facilitate the exchange of up-to-date knowledge and strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration.
This text has been prepared on the basis of the objectives and fields of activity defined in the Center's regulations. It does not imply that specific devices, diagnostic procedures, or treatments are currently being offered by the Center.